Oil-based paint, stain, and varnish contain petroleum chemicals which can be toxic. Do not throw these products in the garbage.
When storing oil-based paint, stain and varnish, follow these tips to keep products in good condition.
- Keep usable products free of contaminants such as mold and rust. Put a sheet of plastic wrap over the can before putting on the lid to keep rust out.
- Keep usable products in the original container, with a tight lid on it.
- Store products away from flames, sparks or heat sources.
- Fumes can accumulate in closed spaces, so be sure to store products in a well ventilated area to protect your health and reduce the risk of fire.
- If paint rollers and brushes cannot be reused, dry them out and dispose with your trash.
Reduction Tips
Consider the advantages of water-based paints and stains. Using them eliminates the need for solvents and reduces the amount of toxins in your home.For more information on reducing toxins in your home, consult the resources of Reduce.org, a service of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
PLAN AHEAD TO REDUCE WASTE
Save money and reduce paint waste by thinking ahead. Before buying paint, avoid the guesswork by calculating how much you will actually need.- Carefully measure the space to be painted.
- Determine how many coats of paint are needed. See the can label for information.
- Calculate how much paint to buy using this handy on-line paint calculator. You can also use this rule of thumb: purchase 1 gallon of paint for every 400 square feet of area to paint. Ask your paint retailer for additional help.
- Check with your county's solid waste management office for reuse opportunities. Many offer paint in their free product reuse area at the household hazardous waste collection sites.
Disposal Information
Take oil-based paint, stain and varnish to a county household hazardous waste collection site.Oil-based products typically require the use of thinner or other solvents for cleaning. Solvents are flammable and toxic, and should never be thrown away, poured down the drain or dumped on the ground. For more information on proper disposal, see Paint Thinner and Solvents.
For more information on properly disposing of oil-based paint, stain and varnish, contact your county.